Douglas Fir
Pseudotsuga menziesii • Softwood
Grain Pattern
Flat-sawn with prominent cathedral figure; features a distinct contrast between earlywood and latewood. Straight grain elsewhere with occasional knots as shown in the sample.
Color Description
Light brown to reddish-brown heartwood with a yellowish-white sapwood. Shows high luster and darkens to a more orange-red hue with age and UV exposure.
Hardness Rating
660 lbf (Soft)
Durability Rating
Moderately Durable; offers moderate resistance to rot and insects but generally requires treatment for direct ground contact.
Common Uses
Structural construction, framing, flooring, cabinetry, veneer, and boat building.
Geographic Origin
Western North America (Pacific Northwest to British Columbia).
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$3.00 - $6.00 per board foot depending on grade (Vertical Grain/Clear being higher).
Wood Age Estimate
Modern milling (less than 10 years old) based on the presence of planer marks and sharp, non-oxidized edges.
Sustainability Status
Least Concern (IUCN); widely available with FSC certification; highly sustainable due to rapid growth and managed forests.
Workability
Good workability with both machine and hand tools; can be prone to splintering and tearout during planing if tools are not sharp. Holds nails and screws well.
Notable Features
Distinctive resinous scent when cut; high strength-to-weight ratio for a softwood; high resin content can sometimes bleed through finishes.
Finish Recommendations
Polyurethane, lacquer, or oils are recommended. A wood conditioner is advised before staining to prevent blotchiness.
Identification Confidence
High. The prominent cathedral grain, the transition from latewood to earlywood, and the specific reddish tone are classic diagnostic features of Douglas Fir.